Mercedes ISD proudly recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of Mercedes Tiger Band and Orchestra student musicians who recently participated in the UIL Solo & Ensemble Contest. Their strong performances reflect continued dedication to musical excellence and the strength of the district’s fine arts programs.
A total of 20 soloists earned First Division ratings, with 18 advancing to the UIL State Solo & Ensemble Competition in May. In addition, all eight small ensembles earned First Division ratings, also qualifying for State competition. With 60 total medalists in 2026, these achievements highlight the hard work of students, the guidance of their directors, and the commitment to musical growth across the program.
FIRST DIVISION SOLOISTS
Jason Rivera, French Horn
Joshua Mendoza, Snare
FIRST DIVISION SOLOISTS ADVANCING TO STATE
Isaiah Banda, Alto Sax
BreAnna Wright, Trumpet
Damian Ybarra, Trombone
Carlie Rabel, Baritone
Kylie Carillo, Snare
Isabella Saenz, Snare
Xeus Solis, Snare
Rylee Trevino, Snare
Alejandro Gonzales, Timpani
Sebastian Balderas, Keyboard
Isabella Gavia, Keyboard
Genesys Olvera, Keyboard
Jayden Ramirez, Keyboard
Damien Garcia, Multiple Percussion
Fabian Rivas, Multiple Percussion
Xylo Solis, Multiple Percussion
Steven Garcia, Drum Set Solo
Dominick Rincon, Drum Set Solo
FIRST DIVISION ENSEMBLES ADVANCING TO STATE
Flute Quartet – “Five Miniatures”
Andrea Arteaga, Lia Rodriguez, Ilanah Rojas, Deisy Sosa
Saxophone Quartet – “Sailor’s Hornpipe”
Isaiah Banda, Nicholas Cano, Genesis Cerda, Martin Melgoza
Saxophone Quartet – “Allegro de Concert”
Jayden Cruz, Elyria Longoria, Juan Martinez, Tara Rodriguez
Clarinet Choir – “Egmont Overture”
Alondra Alvarado, Richard Brock, Esmerlinda Castillo, Jose Garcia, Karina Gonzalez, Vanessa Hernandez, Sydney Herrera, Jaden Lopez, Callie Ortiz, Hania Ramirez, Jessica Rodriguez, Xeus Solis, Kaydie Trevino, Haylee Velasquez
Trumpet Trio – “Trumpets of Spain”
Adrian Gonzales, Alyna Gonzalez, Damien Trevino
Trombone Quartet – “Suite for Trombones”
Felix Flores, Jimmy Flores, Abram Trevino, Emmanuel Verdin
Euphonium/Baritone Trio – “Lift Thine Eyes”
Amadayus Barrientes, Kate Ortiz, Carlie Rabel
Brass Quartet – “La Pompnazza & La Rustica”
Jenna Morin, BreAnna Wright, Naya Yanes, Damian Ybarra
MISD congratulates these student musicians for representing the district with excellence, discipline, and commitment to their craft. Their success reflects the strong tradition of fine arts and student achievement across our schools.
